My name is Marilyn Baker, and I have horrible allergies. I’m 42 years old and have been suffering from allergies since I was a child. I have seasonal and environmental allergies. Allergies plague me year round. When I was young, my parents even moved to a dryer area in the hope of helping me. Over the past eight years, I have done extensive research both through doctors and online. I have managed to come up with some combinations that have helped me a great deal. My allergies aren’t gone, but they have become manageable. I do have to have allergy shots, but I also use some natural remedies. I am happy to be able to share my findings with you here on my blog. I hope you can find some of this of value.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in men and women in the United States. Each year over 50,000 people die from the disease.
One of the best ways to detect colorectal cancer early is to get a colonoscopy. This screening test can find polyps so they can be removed before they become cancerous. It can also find cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. The Mayo Clinic recommends that people at average risk for colorectal cancer get a colonoscopy every ten years, beginning at age 45.
If you are 45 or older and have not had a colonoscopy, it's important to talk to your doctor about getting screened. In the meantime, don't ignore these four warning signs that something could be wrong with your colon.
Warning Sign 1: Change in Bowel Habits
If you usually have regular bowel movements but suddenly start going more frequently or have diarrhea that lasts for more than a few days, it could be a sign that something is wrong with your colon. While an occasional change in bowel habits is normal, persistent changes are not and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Warning Sign 2: Rectal Bleeding or Blood in Your Stool
Rectal bleeding can be a sign of hemorrhoids. However, it can also be a symptom of colorectal cancer. If you notice blood in your stool or on toilet paper after wiping, it's important to see your doctor so they can determine the cause.
Warning Sign 3: Persistent Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain that persists for more than a few days could be a sign of inflammation or irritation in the colon or rectum. If you experience any abdominal pain, bloating, cramping or discomfort that does not go away or gets worse over time, be sure to tell your doctor so they can investigate further.
Warning Sign 4: Unexplained Weight Loss
If you suddenly lose weight without even trying, especially if you also have any of the above symptoms, it could be because of colorectal cancer or another serious illness. Unexplained weight loss is often one of the first noticeable symptoms of colorectal cancer in men and women. If you've been losing weight without any change to your diet or exercise routine, talk to your doctor about what might be causing it.
These are just four warning signs that something could be wrong with your colon. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you're over 45 and haven't had a colonoscopy, see your doctor so they can determine what might be causing them. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) wants you to know that early detection is "key to preventing colorectal cancer." Schedule your colonoscopy today.
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